Taoiseach Micheál Martin signed a book of condolences in Dublin today, Thursday, April 24, for Pope Francis, who died on Monday.
"On behalf of the people of Ireland, I signed the Book of Condolences at the Apostolic Nunciature in Dublin for the late Pope Francis," the Taoiseach said in a post on social media today.
"Pope Francis’ papacy was marked by his unwavering commitment to the principles of compassion, peace, and human dignity.
"May he rest in peace."
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"A special place in the hearts of Irish people"
In a statement after the Pope's death was announced on Monday, the Taoiseach said in part: "Pope Francis’ long and distinguished papacy was marked by his unwavering commitment to the principles of compassion, peace, and human dignity.
"He spoke out for the poor, the marginalised, and the oppressed. His solidarity with refugees, his calls for climate action, and his insistence on global peace and equality set him apart as a champion of justice in the modern world.
"Pope Francis holds a special place in the hearts of the Irish people. During his visit to Ireland in August 2018 for the World Meeting of Families, he was welcomed with warmth and enthusiasm that spoke volumes about the respect and affection in which he was held by Irish people."
Speaking later with RTÉ News, the Taoiseach described Pope Francis as a "pure voice of love and mercy."
He added: "He promoted peace everywhere he went, and he had the dignity of every human being as center to his philosophy."
The people of Ireland and the people of the world valued the leadership and humility of Pope Francis. pic.twitter.com/TGMMMlR0gs
— Micheál Martin (@MicheálMartinTD) April 21, 2025
"Momentous leadership"
In October 2020, Martin, who was then serving his first term as Taoiseach, welcomed Pope Francis' "intervention" on gay couples, praising it as "positive."
The Pope had said in the "Francesco" documentary: “Homosexual people have a right to be in a family. They are children of God and have a right to a family. Nobody should be thrown out or be made miserable over it. What we have to create is a civil union law. That way they are legally covered. I stood up for that.”
The Taoiseach described the Pope's comments as a "momentous leadership," adding that it "will hopefully be a catalyst for change through the Church."
With focus on Covid it’s important we don’t miss big positive events in the world around us. The intervention of Pope Francis on the rights of gay couples is just such a moment. It represents momentous leadership and will hopefully be a catalyst for change throughout the Church.
— Micheál Martin (@MicheálMartinTD) October 21, 2020
The Taoiseach is set to attend the funeral for Pope Francis this Saturday. He will represent Ireland along with President Michael D. Higgins and Tánaiste Simon Harris.
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